Hiring An Interior Designer

How long do you estimate that this project will take? You can usually expect a project to take longer than estimated (kind of like a budget), but a time frame is important.

What are you responsible for? Outline the designer's responsibilities: will they buy the materials, finishes and furnishings on their own? Will they supply all the service people? What drawings and layout plans are provided?

Can I use my own contractor and/or cabinetmaker or must I use yours? Some interior designers supply their own contractors, but if you have a cabinetmaker or painter that you have used in the past and trust, then you should make sure that you'll be allowed to use him.

Can you formulate a contract? This may be last but it's certainly not least: it is imperative that the designer write a contract, specifying all the details of the project such as payment, time frame, responsibility of each party, and whatever other details were discussed and agreed upon.

evaluate chemistry

It's important to remember that this is your home we're talking about here, so if you care enough to make the changes in the first place by hiring an interior designer, then you'll want to make sure it's someone you trust. Don't be intimidated just because they use terminology you're unfamiliar with — they are there to lead you toward the conceptual and aesthetic changes you're seeking.

If the designer refuses to answer your questions, pushes ideas onto you, or simply ignores your requests or questions, then you're better off finding another designer.

hire the right person

Most interior design projects are important undertakings; of course, the range is wide and can go from $600 to $60,000, but even smaller projects can make a dent in your wallet. It's therefore crucial that you hire the right person for the job and do your homework.

Get an idea of what you want in terms of look and style, and communicate this message clearly with the help of visual aids like photographs and magazines. Asking the prospective interior designer the right questions is important, but the chemistry the two of you have and the person's personality play an important role in the decision-making process too.

This might seem like a lot of work, but if your stylin' downtown condo doesn't deserve it, what does?